The UK is probably one of the most secular countries in Europe and it is a place where atheist “stood out” in media. The Guardian has launched a challenge to them to express atheism in their own words.

One thing that always surprises and disgusts me about so-called christians is their willingness to hate those who have different beliefs than they; those with other faiths or (especially) no faith at all. If “god is love” then why are his followers so hateful and hate-filled? Of course, “christian love” may perhaps be demonstrated by Orwellian acts of cruelty and violence towards the beloved?

First question: is the comment about “real” Christians or about the “so-called”? In this case what follows is not relevant. We all agree.

The willingness to hate. Since man was created in God’s image and since man has sinned it is quite logical that man is corrupted. Hatred is part of (fallen) man’s nature.

Christians do not really hate those who have different believes. That is why they do charity work in Africa, India, etc. The statement is false!

It is hard to believe that someone has no faith at all. I am not saying religious faith.

God is love; that is correct. His followers are not. His followers are not god and are not love. They sometimes step outside God’s love and guess what’s there?

I was at a conference today and I learnt some things that I want to write down and share. So here goes:

#1. Never start a lecture with Q&A. Even if the previous night you did not have time to take a few questions, leave them for the end of your lecture. They may not be of interest to all the attendance and you will only lose their focus.

#2. Q&A: Find the real question with the one who is asking. When someone puts a question he is usually focused on his particular situation and to give a good answer for him you must understand his condition. Do this by asking him some clarification questions. Usually, if you did not understand the question correctly, the audience will not say it.

#3. As a translator never speak over the lecturer. If you are translating someone, never interrupt him. If he has long phrases, just ask him to use shorter sentences.

#4. Deal with hecklers at Q&A. There may be someone that wants to put you in bad light or is acting rude. Let him finish his questions (monologue) and them give a quick and short reply. Then say “The next question please”. Be polite, you do not want to be rude or hurt someone’s feelings. The audience will be on your side.

…and a bonus

#5. Always have something to write when you are in the audience. Even if the subject is not interesting maybe it will make your mind working and you will lose those ideas if you cannot write them down.